Bald Mountain Recreation Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bald Mountain State Recreation Area |
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 Bald Mountain State Recreation Area
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Oakland County, Michigan, United States |
| Nearest city | Lake Orion, Michigan |
| Area | 4,637 acres (18.77 km2) |
| Governing body | Michigan Department of Natural Resources |
| http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=435&type=SPRK | |
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Lower Trout Lake Bathhouse Complex and Contact Station
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| Built | 1964 |
| Architect | Gunnar Birkerts |
| Architectural style | Modern |
| NRHP reference No. | 13000670 |
| Added to NRHP | September 3, 2013 |
Bald Mountain State Recreation Area is a huge park in Michigan. It covers about 4,637 acres (that's over 7 square miles!). You can find it near Lake Orion, Michigan. This park has some of the roughest land in southeastern Michigan.
The recreation area is split into two main parts: a North Unit and a South Unit. These parts don't touch each other. The South Unit is even divided by a road called M-24. This park is a popular spot for people who love the outdoors. Many visitors come for day trips, hunting, or fishing. It's also right next to Lake Orion High School. Some of the park's land used to be part of the Scripps Mansion property.
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What Can You Do at Bald Mountain State Recreation Area?
Bald Mountain offers many fun activities for all seasons. Whether you like quiet walks or exciting sports, there's something for you.
Outdoor Adventures and Sports
- Hunting: You can hunt here from September 15 to March 31. Common animals include deer, rabbits, squirrels, and ducks.
- Shooting and Archery: The park has special ranges for shooting and archery.
- Swimming: The South Unit has a sandy beach at Lower Trout Lake. It's a great place to cool off!
- Boating and Canoeing: Enjoy getting out on the water.
- Fishing: Many lakes and streams are perfect for fishing. You might catch bass, pike, or trout. Trout Creek and Paint Creek are known for their trout.
- Hiking: There are 15 miles of marked trails. Some of these trails are quite rugged, offering a challenge.
- Mountain Biking: Explore the park's trails on your bike.
- Cross-country Skiing: In winter, eight miles of trails are prepared for skiing.
- Snowmobiling: Seven miles of trails in the southern part of the park are open for snowmobiles.
Relaxing and Family Fun
- Playground: Kids can have fun on the playground.
- Picnicking: There are picnic areas and even a picnic shelter. It's perfect for a meal outdoors.
- Camping: If you want to stay overnight, the North Unit has two rustic cabins.
- Metal Detecting: You can search for hidden treasures in special areas. If you find something, park staff will review it.
Unique Buildings at Bald Mountain
Bald Mountain State Recreation Area is home to some very special buildings. These were designed by a famous architect named Gunnar Birkerts. They are known as the Lower Trout Lake Bathhouse Complex and Contact Station. These buildings are so important that they are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Modern Design and History
The complex includes five buildings with a unique style called Mid-Century Modern. Four of these buildings are near the beach at Lower Trout Lake. They include men's and women's bathhouses, a pump house, and a snack stand. The fifth building, called a "contact station," is about a mile away at the park's entrance.
All these buildings are round. They are made from strong, patterned concrete. They were built between 1964 and 1969. The state wanted buildings that were easy to take care of. Gunnar Birkerts designed them with unusual roofs and textured walls. These special facilities were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.
